Rep. Shri Thanedar Co-leads Bill to Send Doctors to Underserved Areas and Address the Pressing Physician Shortage
Washington, D.C. – July 27, 2023 – Congressman Shri Thanedar, an immigrant himself, takes great pride in supporting the Doctors in Our Borders Act as an original cosponsor to keep foreign doctors in America. The groundbreaking bill increases healthcare access by addressing the pressing physician shortage in the United States.
Student’s all around the world study in American medical schools. Graduates from these esteemed institutions are renowned for their innovative and successful contributions to the medical field. However, many talented foreign doctors arrive on J-1 visas, which impose a mandatory return requirement to their home countries for at least two years after completing their studies.
Recognizing the immense potential of these physicians and the valuable contributions they can make to American healthcare, the Conrad 30 program was established. This program grants waivers for the return requirement to 30 bright young doctors in each state, on the condition that they serve in designated underserved areas. While the Conrad 30 program has proven highly effective, Congressman Shri Thanedar firmly believes that more can be done to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility.
The Doctors in Our Borders Act aims to amplify the Conrad 30 program by providing the waiver to 100 physicians in each state rather than the current 30. By doing so, the bill aims to attract and retain even more talented doctors, empowering them to serve communities in need and elevate the overall standard of healthcare nationwide.
"Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right for every American, regardless of location or background,” says Congressman Thanedar. “By expanding the Conrad 30 program through the Doctor in Our Border Act, we can tap into an incredible pool of medical expertise and alleviate the physician shortage, thereby strengthening our healthcare system."
With the cooperation of lawmakers and healthcare advocates, Congressman Shri Thanedar is confident that this legislation will enhance access to healthcare and improve the lives of countless Americans.
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